Strong 3rd of Subserra

Category: Military Architecture > Fort

District: Lisboa > Vila Franca de Xira > Adanaia > Casal de Vila Quente

Location

Fort 3º of Subserra is located in Casal de Vila Quente, in the locality of Adanaia, municipality of Vila Franca de Xira. Its strategic position in the Subserra area grants it a natural integration with the landscape, elevating it above the surrounding terrain. This location was carefully chosen to maximize its defensive capabilities, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding areas.

Historical Legacy of the Lines of Torres

This fort is an integral element of the Lines of Torres Vedras, a remarkable complex of fortifications erected in the early 19th century to protect Lisbon from the French Invasions. Fort 3º of Subserra symbolizes a crucial period in Portugal's history, where military ingenuity and national resilience were put to the test. Its existence attests to the strategic value of the Vila Franca de Xira region during that historical period.

Design and Military Functions

The architecture of Fort 3º of Subserra reflects the principles of military engineering of the era, designed for effective defense. Its construction was conceived to adapt to the terrain, optimizing positions for artillery and infantry troops. Its main purpose was to halt the advance of invading forces, functioning as a vital point of containment and observation within the vast defensive system. It is a structure that illustrates functionality over form, prioritizing tactical effectiveness.

The Atmosphere at the Fort

A visit to Fort 3º of Subserra provides direct contact with a setting of profound historical relevance. On site, it is possible to absorb the atmosphere that witnessed the preparations for the defense of the territory and contemplate the landscape that soldiers once observed. The space, despite its military past, invites introspection and understanding of the events that shaped Portugal's path, within a framework that today presents itself as serene.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt